Dunne & Lichaj among Villa departures

Aston Villa have announced that Richard Dunne, Eric Lichaj and Andy Marshall have left the club, while Jean II Makoun will join Ligue 1 side Rennes.

The contracts of Republic of Ireland international Dunne, United States defender Lichaj and goalkeeper Marshall were due to expire at the end of this month, but the trio will all be looking for new clubs.

Makoun, meanwhile, is to make his move to Rennes permanent after spending last season on loan with the Ligue 1 side.

Villa also announced that Simon Dawkins, who had been on loan at Villa from Tottenham, has returned to his parent club.

Dunne had hinted that he was set to leave the club when he played for Ireland in the 4-0 friendly victory over Georgia on Sunday after an injury-hit season.

"Hopefully last night and whatever happens over the next week or so will put doubt out of people's minds over whether I am fit or not," he said on BBC Sport. "Hopefully something will come up."

Celtic manager Neil Lennon has signalled his interest in the centre-back.